The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, in cooperation with the Innovation Development Fund, has announced the launch of a national network of startup schools – incubators – accelerators based at universities and research institutions. The initiative is being implemented as part of an experimental project approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine on April 23, 2024 (Resolution No. 430), with support from the European Union under the Horizon 2020 programme through a special fund of the State Budget of Ukraine.

The network aims to become a key tool in developing Ukraine’s innovation ecosystem by supporting the commercialization of scientific and applied research results, creating high-tech products, and attracting investment. The startup schools will provide comprehensive early-stage support—from mentorship and consulting to funding tools and entrepreneurial skills development.

Key areas of support offered by the project:

• expert and mentoring assistance for innovators;
  
• access to modern scientific infrastructure;
  
• tools for attracting investment;
  
• training and development of business competencies.
  

The project targets students, researchers, young entrepreneurs, and anyone with ideas for developing science-based startups.

Leading Ukrainian universities and research institutions have already joined the network, including:

State University “Kyiv Aviation Institute,” Kyiv Academic University, Ukrainian Catholic University, Kyiv School of Economics, Lviv Polytechnic National University, E. O. Paton Institute of Electric Welding of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, and others.

How to join the network?
Universities and research institutions interested in developing innovation infrastructure can apply by filling out the online form. Applications will be reviewed by the Innovation Development Council of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, and a decision will be sent to the applicant’s provided email address.

This initiative is an important part of Ukraine’s strategic course to transform its universities into active players in the innovation process and key contributors to the country’s economic recovery and technological advancement.